Family Adventure in Serra de São Mamede Natural Park

A Day of Discovery

Today was all about embracing the raw, untouched beauty of Serra de São Mamede Natural Park. We traded our usual cityscapes for the soothing sounds of nature, the cool touch of cave walls, and the invigorating spray of a hidden waterfall. It's amazing how a change of scenery can completely reset the mind, and today was a much-needed escape for all of us.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Café Restaurante Tapada do Poêjo. Fuelled up with strong coffee and some local pastries, we set off for our first adventure: Cascata da Cabroeira. The drive itself was stunning, the landscape unfolding before us like a painting. The November air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. As we got closer, the anticipation grew – Leela was especially excited, her little eyes sparkling with curiosity.

The hike to Cascata da Cabroeira was a bit more challenging than we expected. The path was uneven, and in some places, a little slippery, but the views were worth every step. The anticipation of seeing the waterfall kept us going, and finally, we were rewarded with the sight of Cascata da Cabroeira. The water cascaded down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The power of nature was on full display, and we stood there for a while, just soaking it all in.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cascata da Cabroeira, a stunning waterfall in São Julião, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Leela was absolutely thrilled, running around and giggling as the mist kissed her face. Thomas, ever the photographer, was busy capturing the scene from every angle. I found a quiet spot to sit and simply be present, letting the rhythm of the waterfall wash away any lingering stress. It was a perfect family moment, etched in my memory forever.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand destinations, but in the quiet corners of nature, waiting to be discovered.

After our waterfall adventure, we drove to Grutas de Santo António, eager to explore the depths of the earth. The caves were a completely different experience, a subterranean world of stalactites and stalagmites shaped over millions of years. The temperature inside was noticeably cooler, a welcome respite from the mild autumn day.


Discover the breathtaking Grutas de Santo António, a stunning cave system in Alvados, showcasing nature's beauty through incredible geological formations.
The guided tour was fascinating. Our guide shared stories about the cave's formation and the creatures that call it home. Leela was particularly intrigued by the bats, though thankfully, they were all asleep during our visit. The sheer scale of the main chamber was breathtaking, a vast space adorned with nature's sculptures. It's hard to believe that such a hidden world exists beneath our feet.

We learned that the caves were discovered in 1955 by two men who were trying to catch a bird. It's amazing to think that such a significant geological site remained hidden for so long, only to be stumbled upon by chance. The guide pointed out a stalagmite that resembled Our Lady of Fatima, a detail that added a touch of the surreal to the experience.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante Ribeirinho in São Miguel do Rio Torto. We enjoyed traditional Portuguese cuisine, savoring the flavors of the region. Thomas and I shared some local wine while Leela enjoyed some juice. It was a lovely, relaxed meal, the perfect way to recharge after our morning adventures.


Discover family-friendly dining at Restaurante Ribeirinho in São Miguel do Rio Torto—where delicious local flavors meet warm hospitality.
In the late afternoon, we decided to explore the Natural Bar. It was a cozy spot with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. I opted for a glass of local wine, while Thomas enjoyed a beer. Leela, of course, stuck to juice, happily drawing in her notebook. It was a pleasant way to end the day, soaking in the local ambiance and reflecting on our adventures.


Discover the charm of Natural Bar in Marvão, where crafted cocktails and local cuisine meet stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dinner was at Tombalobos, a restaurant known for its Alentejo cuisine. The chef, José Júlio Vintém, is passionate about using local ingredients, and it showed in every dish. We savored the flavors of the Serra de São Mamede, from the succulent meat dishes to the aromatic herbs and wild berries. It was a culinary experience that truly captured the essence of the region.


Discover Tombalobos: A Culinary Haven in Portalegre Offering Authentic Alentejo Cuisine and Exceptional Service.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Today was a reminder of the simple joys of life: spending time with family, connecting with nature, and discovering new places. Serra de São Mamede Natural Park has a way of slowing things down, of reminding you to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. It's a place where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnect with what matters most.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Parque megalítico dos Coureleiros and Trilho da Barca d'Amieira - Passadiços de Nisa. We also plan to stop by Sabores Apurados, Lda. to get some local treats. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings!

Before I sign off, I must mention how adaptable Leela has been throughout this trip. Moving from Nashik to Heidelberg was a big change for her, and she has handled it with such grace and resilience. It makes me incredibly proud to see her embrace new experiences and cultures with such enthusiasm. I am glad that we can share these moments together, as a family.

Good night from Serra de São Mamede!